Why maintain your chain regularly?
The chain is the most stressed transmission component on your bike. A dirty or dry chain prematurely wears out the chainring, cogs, and derailleur — parts that are much more expensive to replace.
Maintenance frequency
- After every wet ride: mandatory cleaning and relubrication.
- Every 200-300 km: cleaning and lubrication under normal conditions.
- Every 1,500-2,000 km: check for wear with a chain checker.
Cleaning steps
- Degrease the chain with a specific bike degreaser.
- Rinse with clear water and wipe dry with a cloth.
- Allow to dry completely before lubricating.
- Apply lubricant link by link.
- Wipe off excess lubricant with a clean cloth.
Choosing the right lubricant
- Dry lubricant (wax): ideal for dry weather, does not attract dust.
- Wet lubricant: resists rain, but attracts more dirt.
The right setup for maintenance
A bike hanging on the wall on a Compact Bike Setup makes maintenance easier: the rear wheel spins freely, giving you access to the entire drivetrain without having to flip the bike over.